Remanded suspects in the multi-billion shilling National Youth Service (NYS) scandal appear to be going through hard times in jail after they were denied bail by the Anti-corruption court two weeks ago.
Seven suspects out of the more than 30 charged in connection to the scandal have so far made applications to be provided special medical treatment and diet.
On Wednesday, the court directed Commissioner General of Prisons Isaya Osugo to refer the sick suspects to Kenyatta National Hospital “as soon as when conditions dictate”.
Among suspects who have applied to be granted special medical attention is James Thuita, a director of Firstling Supplies, a company that allegedly received Sh1.48 billion from NYS in the scam. In his application, the businessman told the court he has a heart condition which has worsened after his incarceration.
On Tuesday, another suspect Lucy Ngirita, the mother of Ann Wambere Wanjiku Ngirita, was taken to Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) after her lawyer Cliff Ombeta said she had fallen ill at the Lang’ata Women’s Prison.
Another suspect, Evon Wanjiku, has applied for medical care and tells the court that she suffers from a respiratory condition (Asthma).
Suspect Humphrey Mbogo is yet to appear in court as he remains admitted at a Thika Level 6 hospital, while two other suspects; Peter Kimani and Antony Makara have also applied for special medical care and diet.
On Wednesday morning, Youth Affairs Principal Secretary Lillian Omollo returned to Lang’ata Women’s Prison after spending two weeks at the KNH private wing. She was admitted at the facility after collapsing at the prison, hours after the judge ordered suspects be remanded until the end of the trial.
